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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Specimen Processing Technician

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Immediate hiring for "Specimen Processor" in Itasca, Illinois, ! ?*Must be located closer to Itasca ... Qualification : * 6+ Months of experience working in Lab is Mandatory ?If you are Interested ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

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All JobsLab Specimen Processor JobsLab Specimen Processor Jobs in Illinois

Lab Specimen Processor information

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$13

$17

$22

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Illinois is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Specimen Processor vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Specimen ProcessorLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on specimen handlingAssociate degree or certification; more technical training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, focusing on specimen preparationLaboratory, often performing tests and analyses
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic facilities
Common TasksReceiving, labeling, and processing specimensPerforming tests, recording results, maintaining equipment

While both roles work in laboratory environments, Lab Specimen Processors primarily handle specimen preparation and labeling, whereas Lab Technicians perform testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a lab specimen processor do?

A Lab Specimen Processor is responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory testing. They ensure specimens are properly identified and handled according to strict protocols to maintain accuracy and prevent contamination. Their work is essential in supporting laboratory technicians and medical staff, as timely and accurate processing of specimens directly affects test results and patient care. Lab Specimen Processors may also enter data into laboratory information systems and maintain sample storage areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab specimen processor?

To thrive as a Lab Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, organizational skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring laboratory experience or relevant coursework. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and safe specimen handling protocols is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate specimen processing, minimize errors, and support the timely delivery of laboratory results crucial for patient care.

What are some common challenges faced by lab specimen processors and how can they be managed?

Lab Specimen Processors often deal with high volumes of specimens, strict turnaround times, and the need to ensure accuracy when labeling and handling samples. Managing these challenges requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with both laboratory staff and healthcare providers. Developing a methodical workflow, double-checking specimen information, and staying current with safety protocols can help prevent errors and maintain a smooth operation, even during busy periods.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Illinois? For Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Illinois are:
Lab Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,314 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant II-Full-time Days

Delnor Hospital

Geneva, IL

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, position located at Northwestern Medicine's Cancer Center at Delnor Hospital in Geneva.

The CLA II reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with the main lab staff, other ancillary departments, departments, nurses and providers to ensure excellent patient care.
  • Receives specimens into the laboratory information system.
  • Inputs and retrieves lab results in laboratory or hospital computer system.
  • Register specimen dropoffs (e.g. Home health) in LIS assuring accurate data entry.
  •  Properly processes specimens for transport to reference laboratories.
  •  Distributes specimens to the appropriate testing area.
  • Identifies and solves problems utilizing appropriate resources with the assistance of a supervisor, manager, pathologist and/or coworkers when appropriate.
  • Verifies the accuracy of all instruments and test kits; responsible for quality control, maintenance, troubleshoots
  • Operate and maintain laboratory automation systems as appropriate.
  • Performs diagnostic/analytic testing of specimens, interprets, documents and report results to provider.
  • Accurately performs waived and/or moderate complexity testing under the direction of CLS
  • Ensures appropriate testing is ordered and properly identifies the correct reference laboratory for referred specimens
  • Communicates specimen rejections, critical/notifiable results to appropriate clinical personnel and completes required documentation.
  • May review/record refrigerator temperature(s) and QC/QA records. Areas of concern are recorded through the Corrective Action Log and reported to maintenance for repair.
  • Adheres to lab procedures with following up on outstanding orders including time-sensitive draws/charges
  • Answers phone calls to the laboratory and triages appropriate
  • Coordinates courier pickups as needed.

Department Specific duties

  • Performs phlebotomy and other lab specimen collections per age related standards as required.
  • Completes biological transport training as required and maintain competency.
  • Recognizes temperature dependent transport conditions and select correct packing list destination.
  • Monitors and maintains specialty supplies, including kits, swab and collection containers and disperse to units
  • Ensures supplies are available and stored at the appropriate temperatures  
  • Performs microbiology setups or other testing preparation duties.
  • May assist with bone marrow and other biopsy processing.
  • Pull AP slides for second opinion requests and log material back into Epic when material is returned.

Qualifications

Required:

  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum of 1 year of work experience in a general lab, specimen processing or phlebotomy area or enrolled in lab related education program.

Preferred:

  • Phlebotomy Certification or training from an accredited School or Institution

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check.  Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. 

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family. 

Qualifications:

Required:

  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum of 1 year of work experience in a general lab, specimen processing or phlebotomy area or enrolled in lab related education program.

Preferred:

  • Phlebotomy Certification or training from an accredited School or Institution
Education:Non-Licensed Patient CareEmployment Type: Full-time

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